Wanted: Reader columnists

Since 2000, we’ve reserved a spot on our Monday opinion pages for contributions from a selected panel of four to six local reader columnists. Now it’s time to invite readers to apply for our 2015 roster of guest writers.

We are looking for talented contributors who represent the diversity of South Sound residents – urban, suburban and rural, young, old and in-between.

To apply, readers should submit two freshly written sample columns (not previously written material), each 500 to 700 words. Include a cover letter telling us a bit about yourself and how best to contact you.

Samples should be personal essays grounded in firsthand experience and observation, not commentary on national or political issues.

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Successful applicants will have a strong voice and engage readers with skillful use of such techniques as characterization, narrative, precise detail, humor, vignettes or wordplay. (Not necessarily all of the above!) Advice: Columns about pets and other overdone topics are frequently submitted and rarely successful.

Only email submissions will be considered. Submit them to patrick.ocallahan@thenewstribune.com. Do not send your samples as attachments; copy and paste them as text into the email. The deadline is Jan. 12.